Next Saturday night, we are expressing our gratitude for our local songwriters in a Big Evening Concert at The Catskill Distilling Company, from 7-9 pm.

Our latest addition to the Sullivan County Songwriters Circle is Chris Orbach. Chris is a bright, shining storyteller and we are thrilled to have him up here. His songs go deep. They are witty, eloquent and full of grit. His guitar grooves float, some hoisted by the spirits of Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell, he’s an expressive, true singer and his musical dynamics as tasty as they become.

It was a very special afternoon yesterday. The level of songwriting and musicanship was in the heights. We went around the circle, sharing songs. Stacy Cohen joined us to sing and play “Sweet Memories.” When Stacy picks up her guitar and sings, there is so much beauty that comes forth. Keep writing, Stacy.

Lucas Rotman was back in the house. He rocked out on guitar and banjo. BTW…Lucas is a good sport. We tease him about the banjo and he laughs along with us. To repeat Mark Twain, “A gentleman is someone who knows how to play the banjo..and doesn’t.” We admire your pluck, Lucas.

Brewster Smith arrived and we coaxed him to join us from the bar. Come on Brewster….play us some of those crafty songs… …and so he did.

Here’s how we went around the circle:

I started with “Ain’t Misbehavin'” (Fats Waller & Henry Brooks), to rev up the writers with a nod to the Great American Songbook. Lucas played, “Expect Long Delays.” Chris introduced us to his songs, “Some Friend,” and “Fleetfooted Dan.” BTW, many of Chris’ songs are available for streaming and download on his website. Stacy sang “Sweet Memories,” after warming up her hands applauding Chris and his “smart” tunes. The rest of the songs: